Norwich store owner operating business without permit, police say

Norwich - A woman charged with selling stolen merchandise from her Norwich storefront last month was arrested again Friday for allegedly continuing to run her business without a permit.

Sun K. Lee, 57, a precious metals and gold seller was arrested Aug. 12 after police said they fielded complaints that the store, Top Jewelry at 223 Main St., was accepting stolen merchandise.

At that time, Lee was charged with violation of precious metals regulations and her permit to operate the business was revoked, police said.

On Friday afternoon, the Norwich police detective and patrol divisions jointly conducted an undercover operation targeting Top Jewelry. Officer Matt Seidel, who was on a walking patrol beat downtown, had observed indications that the business, which is supposedly closed, was still being operated, said Sgt. James Tetreault.

Lee allegedly left her business card at the storefront and continued to meet with potential customers. As a result of the investigation, police charged Lee, of 86 Otrobando Ave., Unit 27, with dealing in precious metals without a license.

As part of their investigation, police said they seized various items used to operate outside the "traditional storefront," including portable scales and testing equipment.

Lee was released on a $10,000 non-surety bond and is scheduled to be presented Sept. 19 in Norwich Superior Court.